Archbishop of Portland Alexander K. Sample Issues Pastoral Teaching on the Sanctity of Life in Response to Oregon Governor's Proclamation Supporting Abortion Provider Appreciation Day

PORTLAND, Ore., March 13, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- In response to Governor Tina Kotek's proclamation of Abortion Provider Appreciation Day on March 10, Archbishop Alexander Sample issued a Pastoral Teaching letter, expressing deep sorrow over what he describes as "a kind of spiritual blindness so thick that what should be self-evident—the sheer wonder and worth of a human life—is obscured entirely."

The Archbishop warns that honoring abortion providers represents "not just moral confusion. It's something deeper." He calls on the faithful to recognize the gravity of a culture that not only permits abortion but now seeks to celebrate it: "The idea that those who make a living ending innocent, unborn life should be publicly honored… This isn't just moral confusion. It's something deeper."

At its core, the Archbishop's message is not political but profoundly spiritual. He reminds us that throughout history, the Church has stood against the notion that the strong may determine the fate of the weak: "A return to humanity's oldest, darkest impulse: might makes right. But followers of Jesus have always stood in the way of that tide and simply said, No. Blessed are the poor. Blessed are the meek. Blessed are the ones with no power at all."

While the Archbishop's words challenge prevailing cultural narratives, his message is ultimately one of grace, healing, and hope: "The gospel is not about condemnation. It's about invitation… Grace is still available. Forgiveness is still possible." He urges all people to consider a different path, one that embraces life in all its forms: "Choose to see reality as it truly is. To embrace the mystery, the beauty, the wonder of existence itself."

The Archdiocese of Portland recognizes that this is a difficult and deeply personal issue, and we encourage thoughtful and respectful conversation about the dignity of human life. The Church remains committed to supporting women, families, and all those facing difficult circumstances with compassion, tangible resources, and the unwavering belief that every life is a gift.

View the full Pastoral Teaching here.

CONTACT: 
Vanessa Gallant, Director of Communications, Archdiocese of Portland
503-233-8373
[email protected]

SOURCE Archdiocese of Portland In Oregon